For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
September 16, 2005

Family Day, 2005
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

Families are a source of hope, stability, and love. On Family Day, we
celebrate the special bonds that link children and parents, and we
recognize the importance of parental involvement in the lives of their
children. By providing guidance, support, and unconditional love, families
help shape the character and future of our Nation.

In a free and compassionate society, the public good depends upon the
private character of our citizens. That character is formed and shaped
from a child's earliest days through the love and guidance of family.
Families help children understand the difference between right and wrong
and the importance of making good choices. Regular family activities allow
parents to be actively involved in the lives of their children and instill
important values of honesty, compassion, and respect for others. By
raising young people in a loving and secure environment, parents help them
develop into successful adults and responsible citizens.

Parents and family are a bedrock of love and support, and my Administration
is committed to strengthening families. My 2006 budget proposes $240
million for initiatives that promote responsible fatherhood and encourage
healthy marriages. Through competitive grants to State-based programs
and faith-based and community organizations, we are helping support their
good work. As parents continue to raise healthy children, we can all help
young people realize a bright and promising future.

Strong families are the cornerstone of a strong America, and the well-being of families is a shared priority for all Americans. As we support
families, we help build a Nation of opportunity and hope.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 26, 2005, as Family
Day. I call on the people of the United States to observe this day by
spending time with family members and reaffirming the important
relationship between parents and children and the vital role that families
play in our society.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this sixteenth day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand five, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirtieth.